Extensive I-196 project to begin May 12

The largest road construction project in the Holland area this season will begin May 12.

The Michigan Department of Transportation announced Wednesday the $15.7 million reconstruction of eastbound I-196 in Allegan County between the U.S. 31 split and Ottagon Street, which is the county line, is set to begin after Tulip Time and will last until roughly Oct. 31.

The project is the extension of the northbound I-196 reconstruction project completed in 2012. The eastbound I-196 project includes road reconstruction, ramp and bridge repairs and culvert, slope, guardrail and fence repairs and replacement.

MDOT will reconstruct seven miles of roadway there. One lane of traffic will be open in each direction for the duration of the work.

The project also includes reconstruction of the ramps over I-196 at 56th and 58th streets and the construction of a new loop ramp from M-40 southbound — a move that is expected to ease traffic congestion in that area. Those areas will be intermittently closed and detoured.

While work is being done on the M-40 ramp, the recommended detours will be posted.

The 56th Street and 58th Street bridges over I-196 will be closed alternately, and detoured. The detour for 56th Street will be 58th Street, while the detour for 58th Street will be 56th Street.